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Technology-Sector Businesses and Jobs to Benefit from U.S. Department of Commerce Grant

June 18, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to the Hershey Center for Applied Research of Hummelstown, Pa., to boost high-tech business development and job growth by expanding the center's wet and dry lab capacity. The project is expected to create 70 jobs and generate $4.4 million in private investment, according to the grantee's estimates.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This EDA grant will provide life sciences and high-tech companies and organizations with access to the business and research resources they need to bring new technology to the market more quickly."

Among the region's assets are more than 60 institutions of higher learning, including 3 major research universities. Hershey is currently the only facility in south central Pennsylvania offering wet and dry lab facilities. The EDA implementation of the Tech Suite II program will enable HCAR to be more competitive in the region and assist with the diversification in response to job losses. HCAR will provide facilitated access to business services and research resources through regional partnerships.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov):

This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.